THE Dyers Crossing community is calling for the reconstructed bridge that will be built in their village to be named after one of its residents, Erica Gordon.

A community-driven petition has been prepared and signatures are being sought prior to the petition being lodged with Greater Taree City Council.

"I believe very strongly that the new bridge should be named after Erica Gordon who has worked tirelessly and under sometimes extreme duress," said resident Lindsay Gething.

"Her diligence and persistence have been major factors in the success. For this reason, I am suggesting that the new bridge be named the 'Erica Gordon Bridge'."

Federal funding was committed to the project in July when Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss and member for Lyne David Gillespie visited the community to announce $10 million was available to put towards roads and bridges in the Greater Taree area.

Residents have been campaigning for almost 20 years for the deteriorating timber bridge, which was opened in 1934, to be replaced.

Their hopes were raised previously when funding was promised for the work by the previous Labor government, but were then dashed when the Coalition came into government last year and it was made clear money was not available.

The $10 million was transferred from funds allocated to the Northern Gateway project on the request of council, which could not proceed as the required co-contribution funding from the State government would not be forthcoming.

Dyers Crossing residents are pleased the funds have been obtained and hope the bridge will be installed by the end of this year.

Dr Gething is working to obtain at least 100 signatures on the petition and, if possible, many more.

Copies of the petition will be available to sign at The Dyers Crossing Produce Store, Wallambah Road, Dyers Crossing and The Nook, Village Green, Nabiac (next to Robbs Produce Store).

People unable to get to the above venues who would like to support the petition about the proposed name for the bridge, can provide their name and address in an email to dyerscrossingbridge@gmail.com

The petition will be submitted to mayor of Greater Taree City Council Paul Hogan as it is council that has jurisdiction over the building and naming of the bridge.